4 Different types of film openings

In the film industry, there are generally four main types of title sequences. These are the most popularly used types, and any given film or TV show will usually follow the guidelines for one of these styles of film openings. These four types of openings consist of, titles on a black screen, titles of a still image(s), titles on a moving image(s), and titles that incorporate motion or animation.

Using titles on a black screen as a title sequence can account for a very uncomplicated, inexpensive form of opening/ starting a given film or TV show. For this style of opening, all that's simply required is a plain, black screen, behind a contrasting colour of font (usually white). This method is effective in starting film in a very covert manor, in the sense that codes and conventions of the film aren't immediately detectable, and gives the audience room to speculate about the film's content. May or may not involve an instrumental.

The use of titles over a still image, quite easily requires the placing of titles and credits in front of a single of more still image(s). It accounts for a far more detailed title sequence, as the content of the images may well hint at the film's code, conventions and genre. It would do well do have an  instrumental or some sort of music interlinking or connecting with the images themselves.

Having titles on a moving image is a particularly effective way of incorporating multiple forms of media into a title sequence. It simply consists (much unlike the previous methods) of having moving image(s) (usually footage from the film, but not always) behind the credits, with either a complimenting soundtrack or instrument in the background, or sound from the location of the moving images/footage. Usually tends to be more expensive to produce than the previous methods. This type of title sequence is one of the most valid ways of directly hinting at the films content.

Using motion picture or animation in a film opening or title sequence, is the most modern form of producing a title sequence. It cleverly merges various different forms of multi media and the latest motion picture digital technology, as well as careful editing to come up with very current, post - modern title sequences. These types of title sequences will undoubtedly attract a younger audience, and make the film appeal to a generation obsessed with technology. Although, it isn't a form of film opening that is always widely used, as it's most certainly the most costly of all the types of sequences.

My personal favourite style of film opening, are titles that incorporate motion or animation. I find that this type of title sequence is the most exclusive and unique. It definitely is the most advanced style of them all, in terms of editing. The gradual expansion of film producers choosing to use animation/motion in their title sequences shows how far film technology and editing has come, and signifies the evolution of cinematic capabilities. An animated title sequence is also very flexible, as it can effectively introduce the film without giving away too much of the plot.

Casino Royale (2006)